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It seems our favorite eccentric golfer John Daly is up to his old antics again at this year's Open Championship. The 1995 Open champion turned some heads on the practice grounds at Royal Troon this week, puffing away on a cigarette between shots with an overgrown beard and trademark laidback style.

The self-proclaimed "Wild Thing" has never been one to follow the rules when it comes to appearance - just take a look at some of his infamous mullet photos from the 90s. But fans at Troon may have done a double take seeing the seasoned veteran's strikingly different look nearly 30 years after his Open triumph at St Andrews.

John Daly on his practice round at Royal Troon this week (Image: Getty Images)

With a huge grizzly beard and cigarette dangling from his mouth, 58-year-old Daly cut a much more disheveled figure compared to his clean cut playing days. But who are we kidding, smoking and breaking decorum has always been part of John Daly's maverick image. And whether you love him or hate him, the Californian brings his one-of-a-kind entertainment value wherever he tees it up.

Of course, Daly's rounds these days are less about contending and more about soaking in the atmosphere at his favorite events. Despite his changed appearance, Daly was still impossible to miss as usual. His legendary intimidating driving was on full display as balls rocketed down the fairways.

However, it remains to be seen if Daly can recapture the magic of 1995. After carding an uninspiring 82 in the first round, he sits near the bottom of the leaderboard and will need a minor miracle to contend this weekend. But who says you can't enjoy a few drags between holes, even at the prestigious Open? As long as John Daly is playing, the Show will go on - rules be damned!

St Andrews: Daly kisses the Claret Jug in 1995 (Image: Getty)

Off the course, Daly's flamboyant personality and lifestyle continue to generate as much attention as his golf game. The veteran has never been shy about his battles with alcohol and gambling addiction over the years.

He also courted controversy with a past relationship with Donald Trump and some inflammatory political statements. But Daly seems at peace with his reckless reputation, embracing his status as golf's ultimate maverick over 30 years after his breakthrough major victory.

While challengers like Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry were among the early leaders, Daly ensured all eyes remained locked on him in his return to an Open Championship scene he conquered long ago. Only this time as a bearded, cigarette smoking legend of a bygone era.

John Daly of the United States tees off on the first hole on day one of The 152nd Open championship at Royal Troon ( Image: R&A via Getty Images)

He may look a little more "weathered" these days, but the PGA Tour's favorite Wild Child still knows how to keep us all watching. Whether he makes the cut or not, we'll be keeping an eye on golf's most boisterous cheerleader all week. Thanks for the entertaining headlines as always, JD!

Don't forget to check back for further Daly antics from Royal Troon. And let me know in the comments if you have any other thoughts on golf's great enigma!

References: https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/golf/john-daly-the-open-golf-33278439